That sounds like a classic Shepherd’s Pie (or Cottage Pie, depending on the meat you use)! 🥔🥕🍖
This comforting dish layers savory minced meat and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, then baked until golden and bubbling. It’s hearty, homey, and perfect for a cozy dinner.
🥧 Classic Shepherd’s Pie (or Cottage Pie)
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Meat Layer:
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1 lb ground lamb (traditional) or ground beef (for Cottage Pie)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 carrots, diced
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1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
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1 cup corn (optional)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 cup beef broth
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
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½ tsp rosemary (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp flour (for thickening, optional)
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2 tbsp butter or oil (for sautéing)
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
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2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
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4 tbsp butter
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¼–½ cup milk or cream
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
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Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15–20 minutes).
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Drain, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Set aside.
2. Cook the Meat Filling:
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In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat.
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Add onion, garlic, and carrots; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
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Add ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon; cook until browned.
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Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, salt, and pepper.
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Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1–2 minutes to thicken.
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Add broth and simmer until the mixture becomes saucy (5–10 minutes).
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Stir in peas (and corn if using).
3. Assemble the Pie:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish (about 9×9 or similar).
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Spoon mashed potatoes on top, spreading to cover completely.
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Use a fork to make decorative ridges (they help it brown nicely).
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Sprinkle cheese on top, if using.
4. Bake:
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
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Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
🍽️ Serving Ideas:
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Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables.
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Add a drizzle of brown gravy on top for extra richness.
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Great for meal prep — it reheats beautifully!
Would you like me to give you a quick skillet version (ready in 30 minutes) or a vegetarian lentil version of this next?
